Overheard

Scripture – John 8:25-30: “Who are you?” they asked. “Just what I have been claiming all along,” Jesus replied. “I have much to say in judgment of you. But he who sent me is reliable, and what I have heard from him I tell the world.” They did not understand that he was telling them about his Father. So Jesus said, “When you have lifted up the Son of Man, then you will know that I am the one I claim to be and that I do nothing on my own but speak just what the Father has taught me. The one who sent me is with me; he has not left me alone, for I always do what pleases him.” Even as he spoke, many put their faith in him.

Observation – (Write down what you see in the scripture.) Jesus’ main concern seems always to be with the ordinary people who are missing God’s message for them. The Pharisees (representing the organized religion of the day) have become a blocker of God’s word. So, of course, Jesus is in conflict with them. There are a lot of people today who are put off by the church. Some have good reason for feeling that way. Others just have an unsubstantiated image of what they think the church is. For whatever reason, we have to deal with that as we discover new ways to bring Christ to the people. Even as Jesus continued this dialogue with the Pharisees, people overheard and put their faith in Him. What kind of conversation would He have with Bethel today? What would people overhear?

Application – (Write how you will be different today because of what you have just read.) I will speak inclusively to people today. I will be aware of presenting a positive image of Christian faith and living.

Prayer – (Write out a brief prayer.) Lord, please help me do that today. Remind me I am your witness in all that I do. Thank for that opportunity.